Tennōji Zoo (天王寺動物園) is a 11-hectare (27-acre) zoo located at Tennōji Park in Tennōji-ku, Osaka, Japan, opened on January 1, 1915. It is the third zoo to be built in Japan and is located southwest of the Shitennō-ji temple, the first Buddhist temple in Japan.

Attractions and Animals

African Savanna Zone

The habitat features expansive habitats for African animals. These habitats are arranged so that predators like lions and hyenas appear to be sharing the same space with their prey.

Asian Tropical Rainforest Zone and Friendship Garden

Themed after a Southeast Asian rainforest, this zone formerly housed Asian elephants, the last of which, a female named Hiroko passed away in 2018. Established in April 2022, visitors are allowed to interact with domestic animals. The zoo is the only zoo in Japan to house kiwis. In 2024, concerns were raised over the suitability of the kiwi enclosure.

World of Birds and Surrounding Area

Opened on November 21, 2023.

Aviary Zone and Surrounding Area

Home to free-flying waterbirds, the aviary has springs, dams, streams and forest, recreating a natural environment. Opened on April 26, 2023.

Access